What is Bitter Melon and Why Does it Taste the Way it Does?

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Bitter Melon

What is bitter melon? It’s not called that name without reason. It is probably the most bitter of all fruits, and yet one of the most nutritious too. Its elongated shape and warty exterior also make this fruit distinct in appearance.

But what is it exactly and why is it that bitter? What is it good for, anyway, when it is not pleasant to eat?

Technically, bitter melon is a fruit because it is that part of the plant that carries the seeds. But it is more easily considered a vegetable because of its color and taste. Also called bitter gourd and scientifically named “momordica charantia”, the bitter melon is Asian and may not be easily liked by the Western tongue. It is simply too bitter, even to an Asian who did not grow up eating it. It also grows in India, Africa and the Caribbean. It is a common item in most Asian stores around the United States.

Although it does turn yellow when ripe, it is best eaten when still green, crunchy and watery in texture. It is similar to chayote, cucumber or green bell pepper, except that it defeats all three of these when it comes to overpowering flavor. Why is it so bitter? The fruit’s high concentration of quinine makes it taste that way, almost inedible in some cases. But it is because of its bitter taste that it aids digestion. It is also because of its extremely bitter taste that it is regarded as medicinal in many countries around the world. It is used in a number of concoctions and is believed to be the key to eternal youth.

 

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The Theory of Natural Selection suggests that all plant and animal species come up with ways to make themselves attractive to other members of their kind, or protective of themselves by smelling, looking or tasting offensive to a predator. With such a strong point of defensive offense, then, it would seem that the bitter melon is hiding something really special. And so it is.

This odd-looking fruit is rich in iron, vitamins, phosphorous and fiber. It has more beta carotene than broccoli, more calcium than spinach and more potassium than banana. Not only that, it can fight off tumor and malaria, and treat dyspepsia and constipation. Although requiring more studies and scientific proof, bitter melon may be used to inhibit cancer and HIV infection.

In some parts of the world, bitter melon is used to treat chickenpox, measles, herpes simplex, dysentery, fever, painful menstruation, burns, scabies and other skin problems.

But what exactly is in a bitter melon?

For every 100 grams, a boiled bitter melon contains carbohydrates (4.32 g), sugar (1.95 g), protein (0.84 g), water (93.95 g), calcium (1 mg), iron (0.38 mg), sodium (6 mg) and zinc (0.77 mg), as well as Vitamins A, B, C, E and K.

Who would want to eat something as bitter?

Other than those who believe in bitter melon health benefits including the ability to treat the many illnesses earlier mentioned, people who have eased into making the bitter melon a part of their regular cuisine actually eat it for its bitterness. (Bitter melon recipes here) It is deliciously bitter as it is surprisingly nutritious. What is bitter melon, then, but a curious product of nature, to be enjoyed and marveled at alike for its balance of good (the amazing nutrition within it) and bad (the wicked bitterness of its flavor)?

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What is Fenugreek and How Can It Help You?

Fenugreek

What is fenugreek? This oddly named plant is a semi-arid crop that is used both as an herb (its leaves) and spice (its seed, which are more popularly known as “methi”). It thrives in several countries, including Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh Egypt, France, China, and India, which is the biggest Fenugreek-producing country in the world.

As a healing herb, fenugreek leaves when boiled and consumed as tea are said to cure the common cold and relieve arthritic pains, although this is not based on concrete scientific research. In India, it is said that not many people have arthritis, and it is believed that that is because Indians often and frequently consume fenugreek. They said that drinking a cup of tea using Fenugreek leaves could relieve the discomfort of arthritis.

Still in India, people swallow raw fenugreek seeds, about 2 to 3 grams, with warm water supposedly to heal body pains. It is believed to be most effective when taken early in the morning before brushing one’s teeth or drinking coffee. Before going to sleep in the evening, a few fenugreek seeds may again be taken with warm water to fight constipation, due to the seed’s high dietary fiber content.

The small stony fenugreek seed is cube-like or oblong in shape and yellow to amber in color. They contain protein, vitamin C, potassium, niacin, and diosgenin.

Meanwhile, in China, fenugreek seeds, referred to as “Hu Lu Ba”, are believed to cleanse the kidney, disperse cold, and soothe different kinds of pain, specifically hernia or groin pains. They are taken raw or toasted. It is one of the most commonly used medicinal herbs by Chinese medicine men.

 

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The most popular medicinal purpose of fenugreek is as a galactogogue or milk-producing agent for lactating mothers. Studies have proven that fenugreek can increase breast milk production by as much as 900%. Fenugreek capsules are produced and sold in health food stores primarily as a supplement for the production of breast milk. Some commercially-produced fenugreek capsules also claim to combat diabetes for its supposed ability to reduce serum glucose and improve glucose tolerance.

Fenugreek is sought-after also for its culinary purpose and rich, spicy flavor. The seeds are used to make curry powder, pickles, and pastes. Although the plant itself is bitter in taste, its leaves and seeds are used to produce flavoring for maple syrups. It tastes like cumin when toasted. Generally, this popular Indian crop has a powerful, aromatic and bittersweet taste, which is a well-loved combination of flavors in South Asia. Indians also love roasted ground fenugreek seed coffee.

Finally, are there side effects? What is fenugreek not good for? So far, there are not many known adverse effects of this herb except for a few observed minor side effects, such as nausea and diarrhea. These are minor concerns considering the good that fenugreek does to so many of its users. However, pregnant women should not take it since this herb is known to induce labor. Other than those, fenugreek is perfect and helpful for most of its users.

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What is Saw Palmetto?

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto (scientific name: serenoa repens) is a medicinal herb that is believed to help cure benign prostatic hypertrophy or, simply, enlargement of the prostate. Also known as American dwarf palm tree or cabbage palm, saw palmetto grows naturally in Florida and other southeastern states, and looks like, well, a dwarf palm tree. Saw palmetto is a plant that grows as tall as 2 to 6 feet. It has large spiny-leaves that form a crown-like circular fan. It bears red-brown, oblong fruits that are believed to be medicinal. Although it thrives in the US, it is more popularly used as herbal medicine in Europe. According to studies done in Europe, saw palmetto can decrease the size of one’s prostate and therefore improve symptoms related to the enlargement of the prostate. But what is saw palmetto exactly and how is it used?

The saw palmetto berry is made up of the following compounds, divided into 4 major categories. First are the free fatty acids, which are quite numerous in the herb, most especially oleic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid and palmitic acid; second are phytosterols or plant sterols, which are chemically similar to cholesterol. Saw palmetto is rich in beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol and cycloartenol; third are free fatty alcohols, which are actually the fatty acids that joined up with an alcohol molecule; and finally the monoglycerides, which are single fatty acids that attached themselves to a three-carbon glycerol molecule.

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Sadly, however, there have not been many studies conducted on the tiny palm tree or to find out how these different substances work together to provide healing to its users. Herbal medicines seem to do a lot of good to most people-unfortunately, though, herbal companies and herbalists do not have the money and resources to make science work for them. Until today, no one truly understands how the substances in many herbs work and so no modern medical organizations, manufacturers or dealers have supported the validity of herbal cures. Saw palmetto, for instance, has provided so much comfort and healing to so many people through the years, and yet its use remains unscientific, traditional and unofficial.

There were few studies conducted on the dwarf palm and some of the results revealed that saw palmetto reduces the number of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in prostate tissues, inhibit DHT from binding androgen receptors in prostate cells, and promote anti-estrogenic activities in the prostate tissue. These actions make for a healthier prostate.

Another important finding is that saw palmetto compounds could inhibit IGF-1 activities on prostate tissues. This is important because it has been found that IGF (insulin-like growth factor) could enlarge the prostate.

To make it work, saw palmetto fruits or berries are partially dried and broken down with a solvent. Saw palmetto extracts and products are sold widely all over the US and around the world, although in the US it is not a standard or accepted cure to enlarged prostate. Yet, to many who have tried and used the herb, the answer to the question “What is saw palmetto” to them is a relief from urinary symptoms and discomforts that come from mild-to-moderate cases of prostate enlargement.

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What are Ayurvedic Herbs?

Ayurvedic Herbs

Ayurvedic herbs are a part of a traditional medicinal practice that originates from India and when directly translated, mean “Science of Life”. The main principle of Ayurveda is to avoid and treat illnesses by maintaining the balance in the body, mind and consciousness achieved through proper drinking, diet, lifestyle as well with the help of herbal remedies. These various natural and organic herbs are derived from plants and animal products that are known to aid in the treatment of diseases, illnesses and imbalances within the body. Ayurvedic herbal medicine is considered an alternative medicine that traces back to more than 5,000 years ago and up to this day is still wildly used as traditional medicine. But despite them being one of the oldest forms of organized medicine, the question remains to be asked: what are Ayurvedic herbs and how beneficial are they to the body?

Organic Ayurvedic herbs are known to balance all elements of health, are used to treat different ailments, help in weight loss and immunity, help heal wounds and are used for purification purposes. Ayurvedic herbal treatments use only medicinal plants and animal products such as roots, seeds, milk, bone and fats to cure the elements of diseases and illnesses rather than just treating the symptoms.

 

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Ayurvedic herbs can be found all over the world as they usually survive in tropic and subtropic regions. These natural remedies also involve how to find an individual’s mind and body type or what Ayurveda knows as doshas. Dosha types are based on an individual’s characteristics such as eye color, weight, body frame and other physical and health aspects.

There are three basic energy types called doshas that incorporate the universal elements present in each person. First, there is vata or wind that controls bodily functions connected with motion which includes blood circulation, heartbeat, breathing and blinking. The second is pitta or fire that controls metabolic systems of the body such as digestion, absorption, nutrition and temperature. Finally, the last is kapha or earth which controls growth in the body. This energy supplies water to all the body parts, maintains the immune system and moisturizes the skin. All individuals have all types of energies but some individuals have a combination of two energies more dominant than the other. An imbalanced dosha is believed to interrupt the natural flow of the vital energy in the body. When the doshas of an individual are imbalanced, diseases and illnesses permeate the body.

This kind of herbalism requires a combination of different Ayurvedic herbs that are used to attain a dosha equilibrium to stabilize overall health. Once practitioners diagnose the dosha imbalances and conditions of the ailment, proper prescription of herbs is administered to bring the doshas back into balance. Each person will have a different composition which will have different requirements of Ayurvedic herbs.

Most Ayurvedic therapies are unlikely to have bad effects when taken alone; however, it still may react to other medications. In addition, there have been studies that mercury and lead have impured some Ayurvedic herb supplements. It is best to study what is Ayurveda, what are Ayurvedic herbs and how this alternative medicine can help you and your family.

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What Are Fennel Seeds and Why You Should Use Them

“What are fennel seeds?” A question everyone seems to ask on first encounter with the famous herbal and spice staples. Fennel seeds come from fennel, a perennial plant grown originally in Southern Europe. It is sometimes called sweet fennel and the fruit is popularly known as fennel seed. Technically, “fennel seeds” are not seeds at all but the dried fruit of the plant.

Scientifically known as foeniculum vulgare, fennel seeds belong to the family of parsley or umbelliferae, with other popular herb and spices members such as caraway, dill, anise and cumin. It has been traditionally used as a remedy for indigestion and to stave off hunger, increase lactation in women and increase the stamina of the men.

It was regarded as an Anglo-Saxon sacred plant because of its many health remedies. Nowadays, not only is it used widely for many different ailments, it is also widely grown in the whole of Europe, some countries in Middle East, in China, India and Turkey.

USES OF FENNEL SEEDS

Fennel seeds have many culinary and medicinal uses. Because of its aromatic smell, fennel is often used in baking and cooking many different kinds of foods. There are also many health remedies fennel seeds provide. Some of its culinary and medicinal uses include the following.

CULINARY USES

  • Fennel seeds best complement fish dishes.
  • Crushed fennel seeds may be mixed with spreads such as soft cheese.
  • Fennel seeds may be used on vegetable dishes, broths and soups as a spice. It is especially good to include them in curry sauces.
  • Fennel seeds may be chewed directly like a candy after rich meals for better food digestion. They also work like a mouth freshener.

MEDICINAL USES

  • It aids in digestion of food, treats indigestion and cures flatulence.
  • Traditionally used to increase milk lactation in women. It is also believed to increase breast fat tissue, thus today, fennel seeds are also used to increase breast size of women.
  • It is a wonderful remedy for colic in babies.
  • It has expectorant properties, making it an excellent cure for cough. It is also widely used to treat many respiratory ailments like bronchitis.
  • It removes blockages in the intestines and flushes out harmful toxins out of the system.
  • It can treat conjunctivitis and may be use as a water solution in washing infected eyes.
  • It controls menopausal symptoms and relives menstrual pain in women.
  • It is popularly used as a weight-loss supplement because of its appetite-suppressant properties. It can make you fell full longer, thus promoting weight loss.

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OTHER HEALTH BENEFITS
Fennel seeds contain a lot of antioxidants, dietary fibers, vitamins and minerals like copper, iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, selenium, zinc and magnesium. It is also rich in Vitamins A, B and B complex and Vitamin C. Its active components anethole, limonene, fenchone, anisic aldehyde, chavicol, myrcene, cineole and pinene are what make fennel seeds effective in their many restorative and curative functions in different body systems like the digestive system, respiratory system and the female reproductive system.

So what are fennel seeds? It is considered by most as a wonder herb and by many women as a panacea herb because of its many uses and health benefits. So, should you have one in your kitchen? Definitely.

Fennel Seeds

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Damiana Herb as an Aphrodisiac – Its Effectiveness in Treating Sexual Dysfunction

Damiana grows naturally throughout Mexico and in the Southwest areas of the United States. For hundreds of years, the Aztecs and Mayans used Damiana herb as an aphrodisiac, commonly taken in the form of liqueur or tea. It is believed that a certain chemical component in Damiana acts directly to increase sexual desire and even increases the intensity of sensations felt during sexual contact. With this, it is one of the few natural substances that have been recognized to directly enhance sexual prowess in both men and women.

Damiana leaves have been known to possess interesting aphrodisiac properties. Studies on its composition have found out that the main chemical components of the leaves are volatile oil, arbutin, tannin, gonzalitosin, flavonoids and damianin. Apart from that, it also contains essential oil, thymol, cyanogenic glycosides and trace amounts of phosphorus. Although the specific chemical component that is responsible for its libido-enhancing property has not been identified, research has discovered that taking Damiana works to slow down digestive tracts, thereby increasing oxygen supply to the genital areas. These two factors make it an ideal impotence herb for men with erectile dysfunction as it helps men achieve erection easily and maintain it for a longer period. Using Damiana as a female labido enhancer, women can experience a shorter time self-lubricating and attaining orgasm during sexual intercourse. Another study claims that using Damiana results to increased insensitivity in the erotic zones such as the genitals, which in turn may lead to greater sexual pleasure.

Apart from using Damiana herb as an aphrodisiac, the use of Damiana leaves can also contribute to other health benefits that may indirectly assist in maintaining optimum functioning of sex organs. It is used as a general tonic for ages to treat nervous disorders because it is thought to promote a toning effect on the body. Together with this, the leaves are also used to reduce sleepiness and boost energy level. These factors are important in achieving a satisfying sexual experience.

The leaves of Damiana are best used as an aphrodisiac and are commonly taken in the form of infusions or liqueur. You can also take Damiana impotence supplements since it still contains the same therapeutic properties. Some herbalists claim that combining Damiana leaves and Saw Palmetto berries in an infusion can be more effective in enhancing sexual desire. The tea must be taken one hour prior to sexual activity. Since the effect of Damiana is not immediate, it should be continuously taken for two weeks at one cup per day for sustained benefits. Nowadays, one can buy Damiana from different trustworthy health food shops or herbal remedy stores. However, for those living in a place where such stores are not present, the best option is to purchase it from online stores. Just be careful and check the reputation of the seller since it is very easy to fake herbal products, for which sales are not closely regulated.

It is important to note that using Damiana herb as an aphrodisiac should be used in moderation over a certain period. In fact, because people have varied natures of metabolism, some may barely experience any noticeable result using the herb while others may find the plant too potent. This is the reason why Damiana should be taken in moderation and under the guidance of a qualified herbalist.

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Information on Milk Thistle Extract and the Liver Effects of Silymarin

One of the popular herbs that are worth considering for health is milk thistle extract. Studies claim that this plant has promise in the treatment of certain forms of cancer. It is even loaded with more antioxidants than the usual vitamins like Vitamin E. The extract is taken from the seeds of dried milk thistle flowers.

The traditional extract that comes from the seeds contains about 4 -6% of silymarin. The extract is composed of approximately 65 – 80% silymarin, which is a flavolignan complex, and 20 – 35% fatty acids. Silymarin is compound of polyphenolic molecules that include seven related flavonolignans (silybin B, silybin A, silychristin, silydianin, isosilybin B, isosilybin A and isosilychristin) and a flavonoid taxifolin. Based on clinical trials, silymarin has been given in doses ranging from 420 to 480 mg per day in divided doses, 2 -3 times per day. But, a larger amount such as 600 mg daily has been given for those with type II Diabetes and doses of 600 – 1200 mg per day have been recommended for patients with chronic Hepatitis C infection.

Milk thistle extract has been popular in the treatment of different liver conditions. It is thought to detoxify, cleanse, strengthen and energize a slow-functioning liver. The liver is one of the most important organs in the body and is responsible in assisting digestion by secreting bile, breaking down toxic substances, storing substances like iron, vitamin B12, copper and glycogen and producing protein that regulate blood clotting. Indeed, there’s no other organ that can replace the function of the liver, and that is why it is very important to keep it healthy and in optimum condition. However, the extract antagonizes the effect of Yohimbine when taken with that other substance. As such, it is recommended not to take them together and consult a doctor before taking silymarin extract.

Are you curious about how milk thistle extract works? Research shows that the extract tends to protect the liver by delaying the absorption rate so toxins are eliminated in the kidneys before they reach the liver. This is evident with Amanita phalloides mushroom poisoning. Based on animal studies, the plant extract was found to counteract the damaging effect of the toxin completely when it is given 10 minutes after consuming the mushroom. When given after 24 hours of mushroom poisoning, the danger of liver damage and/or death was reduced greatly.

The liquid milk thistle extract is known for its demulcent property, and as such can be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and acne. The extract seems to result in a dramatic reduction in dryness, redness and cracking as well as a healthy glow on skin. Because of its effect in improving the secretion of bile, it can be used as a mild laxative, which may aid constipation. While the health benefits of the extract for the liver have been proven over time, this herb also has other health benefits. Many studies on milk thistle are in the process, examining its effect on specific types of cancer, its potential ability to reduce cholesterol and its ability to protect the muscles of the heart.

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Different Damiana Herb Medicinal Preparations

Damiana herb is a small perennial shrub commonly found in Central and South America. Reports from Spanish missionaries state that the Mexican Indians used Damiana tea to enhance their sexual prowess. As a supplement, it is used to treat various medical conditions, but many of its indications are purely from anecdotal evidences. It is popular as a natural libido-enhancer mainly for women, and in this area, there are several researches to back its efficacy. Based on evidence, it shows that the effects of this plant are not immediate. It usually takes four to six weeks of continuous use before you see any results.

Damiana herb can be administered in varied preparations, and this includes its use in herbal tea, in capsule form and in tinctures. Whichever preparation you try, make sure you check the dose instructions and do not take more than what is prescribed or more than one form. Going against this recommendation increases the risk of overdose, which may cause serious side effects. It is always better to consult a reliable herbalist before taking any Damiana herbal supplements. An expert herbalist can help you in supervising your herbal treatment progress and give you necessary information concerning your condition.

The Damiana tea is supposed to help enhance sexual stimulation, assist in soothing nerves and treat digestive and respiratory problems. However, these claims are only supported by anecdotal reports. In making Damiana herb tea, take two -four grams of dried Damiana leaves, crush them and add to a cup of boiling water. Allow the mixture to steep for 15 – 30 minutes to avoid taking large amounts of Damiana, as it can cause stomach upset.

The tincture preparation of Damiana can either be bought or made at home. The recommended dose is ½ teaspoon taken one to three times a day. In making Damiana tincture yourself, soak the leaves in rum or vodka, approximately ½ liter of alcohol per ounce of leaves. Let it steep for five days and strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or coffee filter. Put the Damiana liquid aside and refrigerate. Steep the strained-out leaves using ¾ cup of water per ounce of leaves for the next five days. Again, strain the water mixture and discard the leaves. Bring to a boil the water mixture and add honey to have a bit of taste. Take the refrigerated Damiana liquid and combine with the honey-sweetened mixture.

Damiana capsules come in 400 mg to 800 mg formulation, which can be taken one to three times per day. Take it with a full glass of water. Make sure that the supplement you bought contains homogenous extract of pure Damiana. This is because certain brands contain additives and fillers, which can make it low-priced yet less effective. Most products combine Damiana with other herbs so take note of this formula combination as well.

Similar to other herbal supplements, Damiana herb is not closely regulated by FDA, and thus there is always a potential risk that the supplement, tea or tincture you are taking is not pure, has been labeled incorrectly with the prescribed dose, or is contaminated. Always use caution when taking Damiana or any herbal supplements.

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What is Milk Thistle – Plant Description and Health Benefits

Many medicinal herbal remedies have a reputation for alleviating symptoms of different illnesses. And usually, traditional herbal medicines are often taken to treat the body holistically rather than to treat individual symptoms, formulated to reinforce the body’s natural healing mechanism. One popular herb of this type today is milk thistle. What is milk thistle? Also known as Mary thistle, holy thistle and even sylymarin, this herb has a strong reputation of detoxifying the liver. However, little is known about its other health benefits.

Milk thistle is native to the Mediterranean region but is now growing throughout the world. It favors dry and sunny areas with spiny stems, reaching height of 4 -10 feet. It belongs to the family of Compositae with wide, shiny green leaves, which have white streaks along the leaf veins. Milk thistle got its name from the milky fluid extracted from the leaves when crushed. The flowers are large and globular, purple in color and endowed with spines. Similar to other thistle species, the seed also has a bunch of white hair. The seed contains most of the medicinal properties of the plant, characterized by its glossy, brownish spots. Milk thistle matures and spreads quickly and is regarded as a noxious weed in many parts of the world. However, it is widely cultivated in Europe for its herbal extracts.

When it comes to information on milk thistle, there is a little more data than on most other herbs: over 300 researches have been conducted to study the medicinal properties of this plant. According to these studies, the active ingredient of milk thistle, which is responsible in protecting the liver, is silymarin. Silymarin belongs to a group of flavonoids, including silidianin, silibinin and silicristin, which are believed to help in repairing liver cells damaged by alcohol and other toxic substances. Apart from its liver benefits, silymarin is a strong antioxidant.

What is Milk Thistle and its Benefits

There are numerous health benefits in milk thistle, but it is commonly used for protecting the body’s liver. It could even be called as the liver’s best friend. The plant isn’t only used to protect the liver but also has a healing power. It benefits the liver by maintaining it in its best shape. Other health benefits of milk thistle are its antioxidant property (protecting the body from free radicals at cellular level), stimulation of bile flow, ability to raise glutathione level and a promising anti-cancer property. The most important health benefit of milk thistle is its effectiveness in preventing alcohol-related diseases such as hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, liver damage and all forms of liver toxicity.

What is Milk Thistle and its Specific Medicinal Part

Many people can confuse milk thistle with holy thistle due to the similarity of their names. In fact, holy or blessed thistle is a different specie scientifically called Cnicus benedictus. Milk thistle owes its reputed medicinal property from its seeds. However, confusion arises as to the real part of milk thistle that is used for health purposes. Actually, the main therapeutic parts of milk thistle are the tiny, firm fruits supposedly called as achenes. Achenes are the substance left after the fluffy pappus or thicket is removed. A lot of herbal literature mistakenly refers them as seeds. Although it appears to be similar to seeds, they are in fact fruits with firm coatings.

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Everything You Want To Know About Fennel Seeds

There are two known varieties of the plant fennel. The bulb variety is called Florence fennel or finocchio while the feathery plant is called fennel or sweet fennel. Sweet fennels, scientifically named Foeniculum vulgare, are most commonly known as fennel seeds. Fennel seeds are actually not really seeds but the fruit from the dried, dead flowers of the plant that looks exactly like a seed. Out of practice and habit, the fruit became known as “seeds”.

These seeds have many uses and benefits. Because of the plant’s aromatic characteristics, fennel stems, leaves and flowers and fruits are used as culinary herbs and spices. It is also used to treat indigestion and many other mild digestive disorders, which would be its most popular medicinal use.

HISTORY

Fennel’s first documented use was found in China dating from ancient times the Chinese still use it even now). The plant was also mentioned in practically all herbal medicine studies in Europe from hundreds of years ago to this day. Native to the Mediterranean, it was introduced to Europe by Imperial Rome and its use spread quickly throughout Greece. Fennel was one of the nine holy herbs of Anglo-Saxons and in the First Century A.D., Pliny attributed 22 healing wonders in fennel.

It was used to treat menstrual cramps in the old days and to relieve women of the symptoms of menopause. It was also thought to increase milk production, so women took it to improve their lactation while the men took it to get rid of digestive problems.

Today, fennel is reputed as an effective healing herb for many ailments. In fact, it was once an official drug in the United States used to treat digestive disorders. It is also classified by the FDA as GRAS or Generally Recognized As Safe, although there aren’t enough studies to prove that it has any health benefit as a food supplement.

HOW TO CONSUME FENNEL SEEDS

Commercially, fennels can come in several forms. There are health supplement fennels in capsules, pills and tablets. There are also fennel seed extracts like oil and tea that are available in the market. And because fennel seeds are widely grown already, you can also find them in the supermarkets and health stores if you do not want to grow them yourself.

You can use the seeds in your kitchen for virtually all kinds of food. You can mix fennel with your soup, stew it, sauté it or add it to your homemade sausage ingredients. Italian sausages are known to have fennels in them, and fennels are also often used in their pasta sauces.

To consume fennels as a tea, crush the seeds and heat them with water. About one teaspoon of crushed seeds is enough for a cup-full of water. It is recommended not to bring it to boil as boiling will rid it of its nutrients. Alternatively, you may also buy fennel extracts or even order them online and mix them with your food and include them in your food preparation. The seeds of fennel can also be chewed directly and raw as a mouth freshener after each meal.

Fennel seeds oil is also used as an aromatic massage oil. When combined with other therapeutic oils, it is rejuvenating and relaxing. Thus, with all the invigorating and cleansing effects of fennels, it is really no wonder that the plant once native to the Mediterranean region alone is now widely grown throughout the world.

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What is Damiana Herb – A Brief Introduction to Its Benefits

Certainly, herbal medicine offers astounding benefits to mankind. It can treat almost all health problems and had been used for its medicinal properties since time immemorial. Despite increasing consumerism and technological inventions, still more and more people are going back to the natural way of healing and treatment and that is by taking herbal medicine. [...]

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Why You Should Use Fennel Seeds For the Eyes

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Information on the Effectiveness of Baobab for Vitamin C Deficiency

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Fennel Seeds for Nausea: Treating Nausea With Fennel Seeds

Feel like you want to throw up but you don’t want to take some medicine? Well, you don’t have to! Do you know that there are herbs in your kitchen that you can actually use to stop queasiness? Do you know that you can use fennel seeds for nausea? That’s right: fennel seeds, coming from [...]

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Baobab Seed as a Traditional Medicine and Life-Saving Staple in Africa

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The Many Benefits of Fennel Seeds for Inflammation Problems

An excellent source of many health benefits, fennel seeds have gained popularity as a natural cure for many illnesses. Of all the herbs known to humankind, fennel seeds seem to have the most number of diseases they can treat and cure. Fennel seed is a famous remedy for indigestion, but you can also use it [...]

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Ten Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric is a strong and bitter spice that is very popular in India as a well-used seasoning in cooking. It comes from the dried root of the Curcumalonga, which is a plant included in the ginger family native to Southeast Asian countries. The distinctive yellow-orange spice often lends its flavors to curries and other ethnic [...]

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Baobab for the Skin – A Natural Solution for Premature Skin Aging

The Baobab tree has a long history of being part of African skincare. The seeds, which are made into oil, have a pleasant aroma and interesting benefits. Similar to any fruit oil, Baobab oil is absorbed quickly and deeply nourishes and softens the skin. It also restores and repairs the uppermost layer of the skin, [...]

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Why You Should Take Fennel Seeds for Libido Enhancement

An effective remedy for the treatment of menopause symptoms, fennel seeds are often used to increase libido in men and women. Fennel seeds for libido enhancement has been known since the ancient times. The herb was a famous aphrodisiac used not just by women of menopausal age but all men and women suffering from low [...]

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What Is Pau d’arco – General Information on the Plant and Its Practical Benefits

Medicinal herbs are increasingly popular today, as more and more people find naturopathic medicine more helpful and safe than synthetic drugs. The use of traditional herbs has always been a time-honored approach in treating different forms of illness and alleviating various symptoms. One powerful herb today is Tabebuia avellanedae, more commonly known as pau d’Arco. [...]

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